Let's clear up some misconceptions about an opioids-related bill before the Pa. House | Opinion

A recent PennLive opinion editorial grossly mischaracterized a bill now before the state Legislature that would ensure injured workers get the prescriptions they need.

The process in the bill (SB936), now before the House, and sponsored by Senate Insurance Committee Chairman Don White, R-Indiana, is similar to one used throughout the healthcare industry.

Gene Barr (PennLive File)

This includes the VA, Medicare, Children's Health Insurance Program. and private insurance.

The drug formularies that would be authorized by White's bill, have been a standard feature of healthcare for decades; though it is not surprising that the author of the op-ed seems confused about how a drug formulary works, since chiropractors are not authorized to prescribe medication so it's likely he has little experience.

So what about experts who are involved in the prescription drug aspect of healthcare? If this approach really did "let insurance companies come between doctors and patients," the actual practitioners would be opposed, right?

In fact, groups representing doctors who are authorized to prescribe medication have indicated they are fine with the bill and others are actively supporting it - like the PA Occupational and Environmental Medical Society and the Hospital & Healthsystem Association of PA, among others.

Finally, to state that drug formularies aren't connected to the opioid epidemic is inconsistent with the facts. States all over the country have passed this legislation in response to the epidemic and have experienced significant declines in opioid abuse.

For example, California passed legislation in 2015, and their state Workers' Comp Director said: "The adoption of the drug formulary is a step forward for California's injured workers and should help address the overuse of high-risk medications such as opioids. It is expected to improve patient care and ease approval of appropriate treatment."

Now, states that have reduced opioid abuse among injured workers by implementing a drug formulary have experienced cost savings, but S.B. 936 requires any savings to be passed on to employers. Griping about insurance company profits makes great sound bites - but actually reading the legislation shows this is not what the bill is about.

The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business & Industry is proud to join with hospitals, healthcare providers, addiction treatment professionals, pharmacists, local governments, more than 70 local chambers of commerce and others in supporting this legislation.

Gene Barr is the president and CEO of the PennsylvaniaChamber of Business and Industry. He writes from Harrisburg.